Cherchesov takes credit for dumping Spain out

The hosts opted to field a more defensive side against 'La Roja', playing five at the back as they looked to nullify their more illustrious opponents and that move was proven correct as they held out to defeat one of the favourites to win the tournament on penalties.

Speaking following the game, Cherchesov didn't hesitate in giving himself credit for the win.

“I really had to persuade [my players] that this was the only way out,” he explained. “We don’t like this kind of structure but this is what we had to do with three defenders. Thank god my footballers understood what I was telling them. They trusted me.

“I spoke with every player individually more than I had in the past and I had to explain to them why, where, what, and it has worked out as you see. I believe that my players have been victorious because they have adhered to my strategy.”

However, despite a huge wave of optimism sweeping the country, cherchesov insisted that he wasn't looking any further ahead than the quarter-finals.

“My emotions are simple,” he added. “You show your emotions in how you direct the team. Now it’s over and I’m thinking only about the next game. These are very simple, not very sophisticated emotions. That’s how it is.

“It has never been this way that so many favourites lose and go out. This is football. What can you say?”